If you read my post about goal setting for 2020, you’ll know that I’m taking a bit of a different approach to preparing for the year than my regular routine.
To sum it up, in terms of my goals, I’ve decided that I’m only focusing on ONE goal for the entire year.
Like I said in my post, this doesn’t mean that I’m not paying attention to other important aspects of my life. It simply means that this is one goal has an exact endpoint that I want to reach by the end of 2020. The other “goals” (i.e. fitness, relationships, health, etc.) are all priorities that I will be working on, but I don’t have specific set-in-stone end points for them. I just simply want to keep progressing in all those areas.
Why am I telling you this?
Well, because I know for me this time of year can be a little overwhelming when you’re someone who likes to dream big.
I’m notorious for taking the time between Christmas and New Years and going crazy with the goal setting and resolutions.
This year, though, along with my new approach to goal setting, I’m going to be prepping for the year with a bit more of a laid back approach.
If you also want to step into the New Year feeling inspired, stress-free, and ready to take on the new decade, here are some things that might be worth trying:
1. Upgrade your space
Hear me out: Upgrading your space doesn’t have to mean a full renovation or anything over-the-top. Upgrading your space could simply mean getting a new desk light so you can see better in your office, or perhaps switching out your bedding for something fresh. It could even be something as simple as buying new storage solutions so your space feels more neat and tidy.
No doubt about it: our space, and how comfortable and at peace we feel in that space, has a huge impact on our thoughts, mood, and productivity. Get this right for the new year (to the best of your ability), and you’ll already be off on the right foot.
2. Buy a journal/bullet journal
I’m a huge believer in the power of writing things down. I know for me when I get things out of my head and down onto paper, I instantly feel a sense of relief.
While journaling might not be for everyone, I do think everyone could benefit from starting a bullet journal in the new year.
And no, I’m not talking about an elaborate bullet journal full of complex spreads. I’m talking about a very simple, minimalist bullet journal that allows you to keep track of your life, while also helping you with some personal growth (because yes, my bullet journal absolutely does both).
You can read more about how my bullet journal helps me with personal growth here, and if you’re interested in some ways to make simple bullet journal spreads, you’ll find my tips here.
Either way, in the new year, try to spend less time in your own head, get your ideas out, and do a little self-reflection so you can get to know yourself better (this is extremely helpful for recognizing patterns in your behaviours and thoughts).
3. Don’t stop exercising
I know it’s super tempting to stop all your exercise during the holiday break (it’s a break, after all), but if you want to start January 1st feeling your best, try to keep up with your workouts.
You don’t have to be obsessive with this, but just getting 30 minutes in a couple times a week will make a difference.
On the other hand, if you just sit on the couch for a week eating Christmas cookies, you’re probably not going to feel so great when January 1st rolls around.
And hey, if you’re waiting for January 1st to implement a workout routine/healthy lifestyle… WHY?
January 1st is not a magical day. Don’t forget that.
If you need help motivating yourself to workout, read this article.
If you need at-home workout routines that don’t require equipment, all my favorite videos are here.
4. Reflect on what went RIGHT in 2019
Avoid overwhelm and feel inspired to head into the New Year by reflecting on what went RIGHT in 2019.
Trust me, I know how easy it is to make a list of all the things you didn’t accomplish, but instead of focusing on what you can’t change, focus on all the good things that happened.
Resist the urge to go down the rabbit hole of analyzing your whole year, and instead simply focus on GOOD things.
I know some people might suggest focusing on why certain things didn’t happen so that you can correct them, but honestly, I think most of the time we know why certain things in our lives didn’t happen, and sitting there focusing on those missed goals isn’t really helping anyone.
Focus on the positive for that boost of new year energy!
5. Focus on changing habits/routines
Rather than focusing on big goals for 2020, why not just focus on changing habits/routines that can help set you up for success?
For example, I know that I’m a much more productive person when I force myself to wake up early, so in 2020 I’m going to try harder to get up earlier more regularly.
It doesn’t have to be some elaborate goal. It’s just about acknowledging that this habit helps me feel better, and trying to implement it more often.
Again, I know most people will tell you to get really specific with your goals, so that they’re measurable, but with things like habits and routines, I find that having some flexibility here is much more productive for me.
6. Be grateful for the year you just had, and get excited for what is ahead!
I know that sounds a little cheesy, but when I think about how quickly this year went by, it kind of freaks me out. It truly feels like just yesterday I was sitting down to write all my 2019 goals. At the same time, though, when I actually stop to think about all the things that happened this year, it doesn’t feel so short.
With that in mind, one thing that I really want to carry with me into the new year is a kind of “seize the day” mentality.
There are many days throughout the year where I’m either wishing for the day to be done, or looking forward to something in the future. Because of this, life just seems to be flying by.
How is it already 2020?! When did I become old enough to say I’m in my LATE 20s?
Eek, I really can’t think about that too much without feeling a sense of panic, and so in 2020, I’m putting it out there to myself that I’m going to be much more conscious of every single day. I’m not going to rush through days, or wish for new days.
In other words, I’m going to be grateful for all 365 days, with the hope to make each one as full as possible!
Tell me: Do you have any big plans for 2020? Are you setting specific goals, or are you like me and you’re just trying to be more laid back with your goal setting this year? Let me know in the comments below how you’re getting ready for the new year.
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